Recognition Night 2026

Juanita Hogue is an outstanding Community Health student at Governors State University who has demonstrated a strong commitment to learning, service, and community engagement. Through her capstone and internship experiences, Juanita has embraced the opportunity to apply her academic knowledge to real-world public health initiatives. She is currently thriving in her internship fieldwork at Advocate Health, where she continues to develop her professional skills while contributing to meaningful health and community-focused efforts. Juanita consistently demonstrates professionalism, compassion, and a dedication to improving the well-being of others, particularly in underserved communities. Her passion for helping others and her commitment to experiential learning reflect the mission of Community Health and the values of Governors State University. Juanita represents the next generation of public health leaders who are committed to strengthening communities through education, service, and advocacy.

The Communication Sciences and Disorders faculty proudly recognize Kira Lesczynski as this year’s Outstanding Undergraduate Student. Kira has distinguished herself through exceptional academic achievement, maintaining a high GPA while demonstrating a deep commitment to learning and professional growth. Beyond the classroom, she has been an active and engaged member of the campus community, contributing her time through volunteer efforts and service initiatives. As President of the Governors State University NSSLHA chapter, Kira has provided thoughtful leadership, fostering collaboration, mentorship, and professional engagement among her peers. She is widely known within our program for her kindness and generosity, often supporting classmates by organizing study sessions and encouraging others to succeed. The entire CSD department celebrates Kira’s accomplishments and is proud to honor her dedication, leadership, and positive impact on our community.

Emma Robustelli earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Purdue University and has been a full graduate student in the Speech-Language Pathology program at Governors State University since Fall 2024. She is a dynamic, high-achieving student who excels both academically and in her current public school. Emma is proficient in American Sign Language (ASL) and provides bilingual services within a Deaf and Hard of Hearing school-based program. She is also an active member of the National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association (NSSLHA) and has developed a social media campaign to raise awareness of ASL. Emma is a thoughtful, conscientious, and compassionate student and a future speech-language pathologist who represents excellence in her field.

Ms. Dionne Nelson is a dedicated Bachelor of Health Administration (BHA) student, expected to graduate in May 2026. She brings over 20 years of experience in healthcare administration, community engagement, and patient financial services, demonstrating a strong commitment to improving healthcare access and outcomes, particularly within underserved communities in the Chicagoland area.

Currently serving as a Financial Assessor in Patient Accounting at Northwestern Medicine, Dionne ensures the accuracy and compliance of hospital claims, manages denials and appeals, and upholds HIPAA standards. Her background includes progressive roles at Conifer Health Solutions, where she trained staff, led teams, and resolved complex patient and insurance issues. She also contributes to community outreach as a member of a victim support team, supporting initiatives focused on healing, prevention, and health awareness.

As part of her academic training, Dionne is completing her practicum at The Healing Center, providing administrative support in a behavioral health setting. She is recognized as a collaborative leader who values communication, teamwork, and service, and her memberships in Upsilon Phi Delta, the National Society of Leadership and Success, and Tau Sigma Honor Society reflect her commitment to academic and professional excellence.

Ms. Sharmain Chatman graduated with a Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) degree in Fall 2025, achieving a strong GPA of 3.7. Prior to her MHA studies, she earned a Bachelor of Psychology from Governors State University in 2022. She brings over 23 years of experience in healthcare, with a focus on hospice, palliative care, and long-term care services.

Currently serving as an Administrator at Ryze on the Avenue, Sharmain leads the operations of a skilled nursing facility, overseeing clinical care, regulatory compliance, financial performance, and staff development to ensure high-quality patient outcomes. Her leadership experience also includes roles as Assistant Administrator and Social Service Coordinator in a specialized dementia unit, where she coordinated individualized care plans, supported patients and families, and advocated for patient rights. Earlier in her career, she played a key role in training over 250 healthcare staff and contributing to quality improvement initiatives that enhanced patient care delivery.

Sharmain’s healthcare experience is complemented by her strong academic achievement, further strengthening her expertise in healthcare leadership and administration. Her ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, manage complex operations, and consistently prioritize compassionate, patient-centered care highlights her readiness for advanced leadership roles.

Recognized for her professionalism, work ethic, and longstanding commitment to serving vulnerable populations, Sharmain exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding student and is highly deserving of this recognition.

Ms. Yamunasrivalli Akki is a Master of Science in Health Informatics (MSHI) student who has demonstrated strong academic achievement, leadership, and a commitment to advancing digital healthcare solutions. She earned her Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) degree from Kakatiya University in India and has prior clinical research experience supporting multiple healthcare studies.

Currently, Akki is completing her field experience at Keva Health, a digital health company established in 2017 in Lexington, Massachusetts, that focuses on remote patient monitoring and virtual care solutions. She also serves as a Graduate Assistant, applying her informatics training to data analysis, research support, and academic activities.

As a dedicated student leader, Akki is the President of the Student Healthcare Management Association and the Secretary of the International Culture Organization, where she actively promotes collaboration, professional development, and inclusivity.

With a GPA of 3.9+, Akki’s academic excellence, leadership, and service have earned her induction into the Alpha Eta Honor Society, in addition to recognition through the Will County HEROES Scholarship and the Spirit of Service Award. Her strong work ethic and passion for healthcare innovation position her as an outstanding student and emerging leader in health informatics.

Syed A. Rizvi is a Family Nurse Practitioner graduate student at Governors State University dedicated to clinical excellence and patient-centered care. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and has extensive bedside experience as a registered nurse in emergency and trauma settings. He is board-certified in Trauma Nursing (TNS), Emergency Nursing (CEN), and Critical Care Nursing (CCRN). Syed also earned a Master of Public Health and has worked as a Certified Mobile Research Nurse for a pharmaceutical company and as a Medical Analyst for the Illinois Office of the Inspector General, reflecting his commitment to integrating public health and clinical practice. He is passionate about advancing evidence-based care, preventing chronic disease, and improving health outcomes in the communities he serves.

Miguel Sotelo is an exceptional Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) student at Governors State University, where he has excelled in two advanced CNS courses under my instruction.

He consistently demonstrates remarkable dedication, intellectual curiosity, and a strong commitment to the highest standards of clinical practice.

Miguel’s passion for the CNS role is evident in the quality of his work, his thoughtful engagement in coursework, and his ability to translate complex concepts into meaningful clinical applications.

His preceptors consistently praise his compassion, professionalism, and clear vision for his future in advanced practice nursing.

Miguel is a standout emerging Clinical Nurse Specialist. His developing clinical expertise, eagerness to learn, and commitment to advancing nursing practice make him truly deserving of recognition.

To meet Laila Atra-Yassin is to meet someone with an all-receiving heart who brings light into all parts of life. As our MOT student of the year nominee, Laila exemplifies the spirit of occupational therapy through service, inclusive leadership, and community building. Throughout the program, Laila has consistently shown an exceptional awareness of others, a proactive approach to advocacy, and a genuine ability to create welcoming, supportive spaces for peers, faculty, and community partners alike.

As President of the Student Occupational Therapy Association, Graduate Assistant for the Dual Degree Program, and a member of the Alpha Eta Honor Society, Laila has taken initiative to strengthen student engagement, professional development, and community outreach. Laila’s leadership extends beyond campus through active involvement in OT advocacy, mentoring fellow students, and founding a parent advocacy committee to support families navigating special education services. Across psychosocial, equine-assisted, and early intervention fieldwork settings, Laila has brought warmth, curiosity, and a person-centered mindset that honors individuals and families.

Equally committed to advancing the profession, Laila is an emerging scholar, contributing to the field of occupational therapy as the first author on a study exploring the relationship between cognitive reappraisal and physical health outcomes in older adults, all while remaining grounded in gratitude and service. Laila’s positivity, hospitality, and unwavering dedication to meaningful participation truly make her outstanding in all she does, and we are delighted to celebrate her as our MOT student of the year.

Isis Martin is a dedicated school-based occupational therapist and doctoral student who is passionate about supporting students with diverse learning and sensory needs in educational settings. Currently practicing in Tinley Park, Illinois, Isis has built her career around helping students develop the skills needed to successfully participate in meaningful school-based occupations, including academic tasks, daily routines, and social participation. Known for her compassionate approach and collaborative spirit, she works closely with teachers, paraprofessionals, and multidisciplinary teams to create supportive learning environments where students can thrive. Her clinical work reflects a deep commitment to empowering students to build independence, confidence, and regulation skills that support both their educational success and long-term development.

Throughout her doctoral journey, Isis has demonstrated remarkable growth as both a clinician and emerging scholar. Her doctoral research focuses on the impact of sensory integration training for paraprofessionals and how equipping school support staff with evidence-based strategies can improve the implementation of supports that promote student regulation and participation in school-based occupations. This work reflects her passion for bridging research and practice while strengthening collaboration within school teams. In addition to her academic and clinical accomplishments, Isis is an active member of the American Occupational Therapy Association and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, where she continues to embody a commitment to service, leadership, and advocacy. As she continues her doctoral training, Isis remains dedicated to advancing inclusive practices in education and empowering school communities to better support students with diverse needs.

Logan is an exceptional third-year student in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program, widely recognized for his enthusiasm, professionalism, and strong work ethic. His dedication to empowering others to reach their fullest potential extends well beyond clinical settings, as he consistently upholds the highest personal and professional standards. Logan leads by example, cultivating a positive, collaborative culture within his cohort and embodying the core values of the physical therapy profession.

Elected by his peers as Class President, Logan is an engaged and influential member of the Physical Therapy Student Association and an active participant in the DPT student-to-student mentorship program. He has played a key role in planning and implementing numerous cohort and program initiatives in partnership with faculty, contributing meaningfully to the success of both student experience and departmental goals.

Despite his extensive leadership, service, and part-time employment commitments, Logan has sustained a 4.0 cumulative GPA throughout the DPT program, mirroring his academic excellence as an undergraduate. In recognition of his outstanding scholarship, leadership, and service, he was nominated by faculty for induction into the Alpha Eta Society in October 2024. The physical therapy faculty considers it a privilege to support Logan in his academic and professional development and looks forward to his continued impact on the profession.

Monika Thomas is an outstanding student for so many reasons ranging from her academic achievements, her participation in service clubs and organizations as well as her long-time employment in social services. Monika was inducted into the National Society of Leadership and Success for her excellent academic performance. Monika is the BSW President of the Social Work Student Organization (SWSO) within SWSO she ran in the 5K event and volunteered at the LaBrocha’s End of the Year Celebration. She also served a lead role in the Mental Health Symposium and is serving as a liaison and lobby leader for the upcoming Advocacy Day in Springfield. Balancing her work and service at GovState, she has also maintained employment at the Ludeman Center for eleven years and interns at the I Can Dream Center serving individuals with developmental disabilities. Finally, she is a loving mother to her 14-year-old son, who is also graduating this year.

Monika is an alumnus of Bloom High School, playing the flute all four years, and will be graduating from the BSW program in the Summer of 2026. Monika plans to continue on into the MSW program to complete her dream of becoming a practicing social worker.

Karen Muhammad is outstanding because she is a remarkable student and also a well-rounded person. Karen is a first-generation college graduate receiving her BSW from GovState in 2025. She is a member of several honors societies including the National Society of Leadership and Success, Tri Alpha, and the Phi Alpha Honor Society for Social Work. In addition to balancing her academics, she also serves on the Shared Governance Committee at Franciscan Health and volunteers at various community events, focusing on social justice and community engagement.

Karen has cultivated her skills for direct practice by maintaining a substitute teaching license and completing certifications in Psychological First Aid (PFA) and Adult Mental Health First Aid. She has completed an internship with the Wieboldt Foundation where she collaborated with senior tenants to advocate for a Senior Housing Bill of Rights and is currently interning with the I Can Dream Center, engaging in therapy and educational leadership for students with autism and intellectual disabilities. Finally, Karen is a loving wife to her high school sweetheart of 30 years and a proud mother and grandmother to twelve grandchildren.

Karen is graduating from the MSW program in the Spring of 2026 and plans to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and open up my own social work clinic and group home, specializing in services for persons with developmental disabilities.

Dr. Tonya S. Roberson’s teaching legacy is grounded in her belief that the most powerful learning happens when students engage directly with the communities they serve. As a Community Psychologist and faculty member in the College of Health and Human Services at Governors State University, she has built her teaching philosophy around turning communities into classrooms. Through her Internship Seminar and Capstone/Practicum courses, Dr. Roberson connects students with real-world public health, violence prevention, and community development initiatives. Her approach allows students to apply their academic knowledge while building meaningful relationships with community and faith -based organizations , leaders and residents. By bridging higher education and community engagement, Dr. Roberson prepares the next generation of community health and human services professionals to lead with compassion, cultural awareness, and a commitment to improving the wholistic health and well-being of underserved communities.

Julie Harmon is an alumna of Governors State University, where she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees. She serves as a site supervisor for graduate speech-language pathology students at Governors State University and is a school-based speech-language pathologist at Mohawk Primary Center. She is also a doctoral candidate in Northwestern University's doctoral speech-language pathology program. Julie was instrumental in facilitating a graduate student’s capstone clinical research project and is dedicated to supporting student growth. Through her holistic and positive educational approach, she helps graduate students develop their own clinical voice while fostering confidence, competence, and professionalism.

Mr. Austin Roeske serves as an exceptional field experience preceptor whose leadership, mentorship, and commitment to student development have made a meaningful impact on our Health Administration and Informatics programs. As Regional Director of Oncology and Surgical Oncology Service Line at Advocate Health Care, he oversees complex operations across multiple sites, leading large interdisciplinary teams while ensuring high standards of patient care, operational efficiency, and staff engagement.

Austin brings extensive experience in healthcare operations, physician practice management, and team leadership. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a strong ability to improve workflows, enhance patient satisfaction, and lead organizational change, including implementing electronic health record optimization, improving scheduling systems, and advancing team communication. His leadership style emphasizes mentorship, professional development, and collaboration, making him an outstanding role model for students entering the field.

He works very closely with our programs and consistently supports student learning by supervising and mentoring field experience, which requires significant time, dedication, and commitment. Through hands-on guidance, exposure to high-level operations, and meaningful project involvement, Austin ensures that students gain practical, real-world experience that strengthens their academic learning.

Austin’s dedication to student success, combined with his professional expertise and commitment to excellence in healthcare leadership, exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding preceptor. His continued partnership with our programs greatly enhances the educational experience and professional development of our students.

Mr. Roeske holds a Master of Leadership and Management from Lewis University and a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Governors State University.

Cassandra Brooks, APRN, FNP-C serves as a Family Nurse Practitioner in the Wellness Center at Governors State University in collaboration with Advocate Aurora Health, where she has provided exemplary care since 2017.

2018, Ms. Brooks has been a dedicated preceptor for Family Nurse Practitioner students at GSU. She consistently demonstrates excellence in clinical teaching by fostering a supportive, engaging, and student-centered learning environment. Students frequently commend her approachable demeanor, enthusiasm for teaching, and ability to translate clinical knowledge into meaningful learning experiences. Her mentorship not only strengthens students’ clinical competencies but also instills confidence and professionalism essential for advanced nursing practice.

As a preceptor, Ms. Brooks is a passionate advocate for holistic health. She has contributed to student development through multiple educational presentations focused on physical and mental health awareness, encouraging students to become proactive advocates for their own well-being and that of their future patients.

Ms. Brooks’ commitment to the nursing profession is further reflected in her active membership in the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, Lambda Lambda Chapter- GSU. Her dedication to service, education, and professional excellence embodies the highest standards of nursing practice and mentorship.

Cassandra Brooks is an exceptional clinician, educator, and role model. Her sustained contributions to student learning and professional development make her highly deserving of this recognition.

Susan Sinderson is a leader and masterful cultivator of hospitality and belonging, for both her team and the people they serve. As the Executive Director at the Community Adult Day Center in Downers Grove, IL, Susan and her team take great pride in a person-centered approach that offers meaningful connection, physically and cognitively stimulating activities, and supportive guidance for families so that their loved ones can remain at home as long as possible.

For over four years, Susan has served as a dedicated fieldwork educator to Level I occupational therapy students from Governors State University, individually supporting more than 25 students during that time. Every student reflects on their experience with sincere appreciation, noting how welcomed they felt and how clearly they came to understand how their developing skills can support adults living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Many students often wish their placement could last longer.

Susan challenges students to be evidence-based practitioners and creates routine check-ins to guide them through assessment data, intervention planning, and reflective growth. As one student shared, “The support was very much there, so I feel like it made it easier for me to learn more.”

Susan has also provided instrumental support to an occupational therapy doctoral student in completing their capstone research project. While not an occupational therapist by credential, she embodies the heart and values of the profession and tangibly contributes to each student’s professional development. Our program and students are better because of the outstanding work Susan has done to create a welcoming space and a meaningful partnership for our students to learn and thrive.

Rachel Wood graduated from the University of Illinois Chicago with her DPT in May of 2022. Since this time, she has worked as an acute physical therapist at Advocate Christ Medical Center where much of her clinical practice is on treating individuals with cardiopulmonary injury and illness. Even though she is early in her career, Rachel has already made a name for herself as an outstanding clinical instructor. From providing additional readings/information on the various acute care units to discussing clinical rationale, Rachel approaches her students with patience and a genuine interest in their personal success. She is the perfect balance of knowledgeable and approachable, making it easy for students and staff to come to her with questions and concerns. As one of her current students shared: “There is without a doubt that Rachel Wood is the definition of a Clinical Instructor that any student would be lucky to learn from and have the opportunity to be her student. She goes above and beyond the requirements that a CI needs to do, she's an excellent DPT, CI, leader, and person”

Violeta Salgado is an outstanding instructor, role model and mentor to her students. She is a long-time instructor for the program, working with multiple students over many years through her role as school social worker at Lincoln School, within Cook County School District 130. She has been a school social worker for 19 years starting her position in 2007.

Violeta is a graduate of Loyola University, completing both BSW and MSW degrees. Violeta’s student describes her as “incredible and consistently transparent about what it is really like to be a school social worker. This experience has been truly rewarding, and I would gladly work with her again if I had the opportunity. I feel that I have learned so much from her, both about working in a school setting and about growing as a person. She is a great role model and reminds me every day why I want to go into this field, no matter how much she has on her plate. She lets me be completely open with her and gives me such a great feeling of comfort!”

Brenton Bridgeforth is an outstanding field instructor because his instruction is both inspiring and transformative. Brenton instructs students through his role as a school social worker at Rich Township High School. He has been a school social worker since 2012 starting his career with Bradley-Bourbonnais Community High School District.

He is an alumnus of GovState, receiving his MSW degree in 2010. According to Brenton’s student, he “has been an amazing instructor. I’ve gotten hands on (and hands off) experience and I feel as if I’ve learned a lot. I am confident that I will be an amazing school social worker, due to his teaching style and what he has taught me. I hope that he receives the recognition because he really has been amazing and great.”